Gun ownership would become 'fundamental right' if Alabama voters OK constitutional amendment: Today in state politics

Alabama voters will have a chance in November to decide if they think owning a firearm is a fundamental right.

The proposal, sponsored by Rep. Mike Jones, R-Andalusia, will show up as a Constitutional Amendment on the November general election ballot. The proposed amendment would spell out that "every citizen has a fundamental right to bear arms and that any restriction on this right would be subject to strict scrutiny."

That phrase – "strict scrutiny" – is critical, the AP reports. It would require the highest level of judicial review before it could be changed and would mandate that any limits be the least restrictive possible.

Voters in Louisiana and Missouri have already approved the additional of similar language to their respective constitutions. The amendment, which has received strong support from the National Rifle Association, wouldn't trump federal laws on gun ownership but would stipulate that no international treaty of law would interfere with an Alabamian's right to bear arms.

Jones said the amendment would give Alabamians protection against an over-reaching federal government.

"Given the course that the federal government is taking, it is imperative that we protect our God-given right to defend our families, our homes, and ourselves," he said. "If the federal government won't protect our right to keep and bear arms, we're prepared to do it at the state level."